System for protecting a portable computing device

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a system for protecting a portable computing device wherein the system comprises a device housing adapted to protectively encase a portable computing device, a protectively hardened user input device in communication with the device housing, and a protectively hardened display in communication with the device housing. When the portable computing device is encased within the device housing, a user of the portable computing device can operate the portable computing device via the protectively hardened user input device and the protectively hardened display. The device housing may further comprise sealing elements, insulating elements, and shock-absorbing elements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a system for protecting aportable computing device. More specifically, the present inventionrelates to a system for protecting a portable computing device whichallows use of the portable computing device without exposing any of theintegrated components of the portable computing device to potentiallyharmful operational conditions.

Since the advent of personal computers, manufacturers and industrialusers have continually developed faster, smaller and more versatilemachines, including portable computers that are dedicated to perform aspecific function such as word processing, data collection or itemidentification. Alternatively, portable computing devices may be allpurpose computing machines capable of running a variety of types ofsoftware programs. These portable computing devices, such as personalcomputers, may interact with a variety of portable and stationaryperipheral input/output devices such as printers, light pens, imagescanners, video scanners, etc. Moreover, these computers may have anelectric power cord for receiving power from a standard electric outlet,as well as a battery pack for powering the unit when an electric outletis unavailable or is inconvenient. The portability and versatility ofportable computers, in combination with the ever decreasing size andweight of these machines, has attracted a significant number of users,with the number of users expected to dramatically increase in the nearterm.

The design and versatility of portable computers have progressedsignificantly, and in addition to laptop computers, personal digitalassistants (PDAs), tablet computers, and other handheld computers havebecome popular. Laptop computers generally include an upper housing fora display, a lower housing for a keyboard, and a pivot for pivotallyattaching the upper housing to the lower housing. Such construction isoften referred to as “clam shell” construction. Generally, the upperhousing and display are rotated away from the keyboard when the userwishes to utilize the portable computer, and are similarly rotatedtoward the keyboard when the palm top or portable computer is not inuse. The cost of these versatile portable computers continues todecrease as they are becoming increasingly common in all areas ofbusiness and personal life, and the manufacturers enjoy savings due tothe economies of scale associated with mass production.

Alternatively, many types of portable computers are designed to fill aspecific need, for example, the need for a portable computer that canwithstand a rugged environment. While devices of this type offer addedconvenience to the end user, and are manufactured of heavier materials,these devices are generally more application specific and thus do notenjoy the economies of scale associated with mass production. Thus,these “ruggedized” or “hardened” portable computers cost significantlymore than a typical portable computer. In cases wherein the computer maybe dropped, exposed to high amounts of moisture, dirt, extremetemperatures, etc., a typical portable computer may be irreparablydamaged. Therefore, users are forced to continue to purchase ruggedizedcomputers at an increased cost to prevent having to frequently repair orreplace their typical portable computers due to their operationalconditions. Also, ruggedizing, also known as “hardening”, to extend therange of operating conditions, such as temperature, vibration, andshock, that can be sustained by the device is very expensive, especiallyconsidering the testing and certifications that must be performed forgovernment and other compliance applications.

Moreover, computer technology is one of the most rapidly developingtechnological fields in industry today. A top of the line portablecomputer is likely to be outdated as soon as within a year from itsrelease in the marketplace, and may also be eventually unusable due tothe system requirements of newer software applications. Similarly,interactive and multimedia applications, which are becoming increasinglypopular, require significantly higher system performance thantraditional word processing applications. Thus, users are forced tofrequently replace their existing computers to maintain a high level oftechnological capability. With the increased cost of ruggedized portablecomputers as compared to typical portable computers, frequent upgradingand replacement of portable computer can be quite costly and is notdesirable. In some instances, such as government specificationapplications, replacement might not be possible due to the length oftime required for the applicable certification testing. However, theever increasing overhaul required for typical operating systems andapplication software require that hardware be upgraded frequently.

In an attempt to overcome this problem, those skilled in the art haveattempted to enable the use of typical portable computers in ruggedenvironments by designing protective cases of housings which can protectthe portable computer during transport, etc. Various U.S. patents relateto this technology such as U.S. Pat. No. 6,297,236 issued to Seok, U.S.Pat. No. 5,632,373 issued to Kumar et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,214,574issued to Chang. However, these protective cases still do not enable auser to operate a typical portable computer in harsh and ruggedenvironments. In particular, the protective cases only protect theportable computer from environmental conditions while the computer isnot being operatied, for example, during transport. When the portablecomputer is being operated, the computer and its peripherals are exposedto the environment. Thus, if the portable computer is being operated inthe rain, for example, the protective cover will protect the portablecomputer from the rain until the computer is opened and operatied, atwhich time the computer will be unprotected.

While protective cases, membranes, and the like are utilized for othertypes of electronic devices while still allowing use of the device, forexample, a waterproof case for a non-waterproof camera, none of theexisting protective cases offer protection for a device as complex ordemanding as a portable computer or allow for the use of peripherals,such as a keyboard and a display, as is preferred for successfuloperation of a portable computer.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

A preferred embodiment of the invention relates to a system forprotecting a portable computing device, the system comprising a devicehousing adapted to protectively encase the portable computing device toprevent exposure of the portable computing device to potentially harmfuloperational conditions, the portable computing device including at leastone of a user input device and a display, a protectively hardened userinput device in communication with the device housing, and aprotectively hardened display in communication with the device housing,wherein the device housing allows a user of the portable computingdevice to operate the portable computing device via the protectivelyhardened user input device and the protectively hardened display.

In addition, a preferred embodiment of the invention relates to a systemfor protecting a communications device having at least onecommunications port, the system comprising a device housing adapted toprotectively encase the communications device, the device housing havingat least one interface corresponding to the at least one communicationsport of the communications device, a protectively hardened user inputdevice in communication with the device housing, and a protectivelyhardened display in communication with the device housing.

The protectively hardened input device may be one of an interface, akeyboard, a mouse, a touch pad, or a joystick, for example. Accordingly,the at least one interface of the device housing may enable at least oneof configuration, control, and management of the communications deviceor portable computing device via the protectively hardened user inputdevice. Moreover, the device housing may further comprise a sealingelement, such as a moisture seal, a debris seal, a vapor seal, aelectromagnetic seal, or an insulating element, such as thermalinsulation, an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield, or a radiofrequency interference (RFI) shield. The device housing may also includea shock-absorbing element to attenuate any vibrations. In additional,the device housing may be formed of a plastic material, a metalmaterial, or any other suitable material.

Moreover, if the portable computing device or communications deviceincludes an upper housing for housing a display, a lower housing forhousing a user input device, and a hinge element for pivotallyconnecting the upper housing to the lower housing and enabling theportable computing device or communications device to rotate around thehinge element into an open position and a closed position, the devicehousing further comprising a recessed portion for protectively encasingthe portable computing device or communications device when the portablecomputing device or communications device is in the closed position.Accordingly, the device housing may allow a user of the portablecomputing device or communications device to operate the portablecomputing device or communications device via the protectively hardeneduser input device and the protectively hardened display when theportable computing device or communications device is in the closedposition and is protectively encased within the recessed portion of thedevice housing.

The portable computing device or communications device may becommunicatively coupled to the device housing, using electrical,optical, electromagnetic, or other communication mechanisms.Furthermore, the protectively hardened user input device and theprotectively hardened display may be mounted on the device housing.Accordingly, the device housing may allow a user of the portablecomputing device or communications device to operate the portablecomputing device or communications device via the protectively hardeneduser input device and the protectively hardened display without exposingthe portable computing device or communications device to potentiallyharmful operational conditions of use.

The invention may be applied to and used in conjunction with all typesof portable computing devices or communications devices. Some examplesof acceptable portable computing devices include laptops, personaldigital assistants, handheld computers, routers, switches, hubs,telephones, cellular and other mobile telephones, or opticalcommunications equipment. Some examples of such communications devicesinclude routers, hubs, or switches. Examples of optical communicationsequipment include optical multiplexers and de-multiplexers.

These and other features, objects and advantages of the presentinvention will be in part apparent to those skilled in art and in partpointed out hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1C are perspective views of an aspect of a preferred embodimentof the invention.

FIGS. 2A-2D are perspective views of an aspect of a preferred embodimentof the invention.

FIGS. 3A-3D are perspective views of an aspect of a preferred embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 4A-4C are perspective views of an aspect of a preferred embodimentof the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is of an embodiment presently contemplated forpracticing the invention. This description is not to be taken in alimiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of describing thegeneral principles of the invention. The scope of the invention shouldbe ascertained with reference to the issued claims. In the descriptionof the invention that follows, like numerals or reference designatorswill be used to refer to like parts or elements throughout. Each systemor system component described herein or shown on the enclosed figureshas a three digit reference numeral. The last two digits of eachreference numeral are consistent throughout for related systems orsystem components. Unless specifically noted to the contrary, everysystem or system component described herein has the same generalcharacteristics and features of the other related systems or systemcomponents. For example, device housing 140 in FIGS. 1A-1C is related toand has the same general characteristics and features of device housing240 in FIGS. 2A-2D, device housing 340 in FIGS. 3A-3D, and devicehousing 440 in FIGS. 4A-4C.

The invention relates generally to a system for protecting a portablecomputing device, or a communications device, the system comprising adevice housing adapted to protectively encase the portable computingdevice or communications device to prevent exposure of the portablecomputing device or communications device to potentially harmfuloperational conditions, the portable computing device or communicationsdevice including at least one of a user input device and a display, aprotectively hardened user input device in communication with the devicehousing, and a protectively hardened display in communication with thedevice housing, wherein the device housing allows a user of the portablecomputing device or communications device to operate the portablecomputing device via the protectively hardened user input device and theprotectively hardened display. In this manner, the portable computingdevice or communications device retains functionality while exposure ofthe portable computing device or communications device to potentiallyharmful operational condition is prevented.

In addition, a preferred embodiment of the invention relates to a systemfor protecting a communications device having at least onecommunications port, the system comprising a device housing adapted toprotectively encase the communications device, the device housing havingat least one interface corresponding to the at least one communicationsport of the communications device, a protectively hardened user inputdevice in communication with the device housing, and a protectivelyhardened display in communication with the device housing.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1C, a preferred embodiment of the inventionrelates to a system 100 for protecting a portable computing device 500.Portable computing device 500 may be any type of portable computingdevice or communications device. For example, portable computing device500 may be a portable computer, a laptop, a personal digital assistant(PDA), a handheld computer, a router, a switch, a hub, a telephone, or acellular telephone.

System 100 includes device housing 140, which is adapted to protectivelyencase portable computing device 500. Housing 140 includes a ruggedouter shell 120, a recessed portion 115, and a lid portion 110. Outershell 120 is preferably formed integrally with housing 140, as is shownin the figures. Moreover, outer shell 120 is constructed of a rugged andstrong material, for example, plastic or metal, which is resistant tobreakage, etc. Moreover, each of the components described herein asbeing “rugged” or “protectively hardened” include outer coveringssimilar to outer shell 120.

Recessed portion 115 may be formed in any position on housing 140, forexample, on the top, as is exemplified in FIGS. 1A-1C, on the side, asis exemplified in FIGS. 2A-2D, or on the front, as is exemplified inFIG. 3A-3D. Moreover, recessed portion 115 is sized to fit portablecomputing device 500, regardless of what type of portable computingdevice is received. For example, recessed portion 115 will be relativelysmall if portable computing device 500 is a smaller portable computingdevice such as a PDA or a handheld computer. However, as is exemplifiedby the figures, portable computing device 500 may be a laptop computer,with recessed portion 115 being large enough to receive the laptopcomputer. When portable computing device 500 is a laptop computer or anytype of portable computing device that includes an upper housing forhousing a display, a lower housing for housing a keyboard, and a hingeelement for pivotally connecting the upper housing to the lower housingand enabling the portable computing device to rotate around the hingeelement into an open position and a closed position, recessed portion115 of housing 140 may be sized to receive portable computing device 500in the closed position. In addition, it is preferable that portablecomputing device 500 fit snuggly within recessed portion 115 to preventmotion of portable computing device 500 relative to housing 140 whileportable computing device 500 is positioned within recessed portion 115.Thus, padding or any other suitable material may be used in recessedportion 115 to ensure a snug fit. This material can be an inexpensivecustom foam designed for the particular portable computing device beingused. For example, this material may generally resemble the foam linertypically found in laptop computer carrying cases. Each different modelof portable computing device may have a custom liner of a size and shapeappropriate to secure that particular portable computing device withinthe recessed portion.

In addition, when positioned within recessed portion 115, portablecomputing device 500 is in communication with, and electronicallycoupled to, housing 140 via docking elements 130. The positioning ofdocking elements 130 on housing 140 will vary depending on the size andtype of portable computing device used. For example, when portablecomputing device 500 is a laptop computer, docking elements 130 will bespace further apart to correspond to the larger size of a laptopcomputer. In the alternative, if portable computing device 500 is a PDAor a handheld computer, docking elements 130 will be closer together tocorrespond to the smaller size of the PDA or handheld computer. Housing140 may include a plurality of sets of docking elements 130 such thatdifferent type of portable computing devices 500 may be used withoutmaking any significant changes to housing 140. In the alternative,housing 140 may be designed specifically to receive only one type ofportable computing device, such as a laptop computer. In this case,docking elements 130 can be customized to receive that type of portablecomputing device.

Docking elements 130 may consist of a variety of individuals dockingelements for the various outputs of portable computing device 500. Forexample, docking elements 130 may include elements for allowingcommunication for a variety of communication elements such as atelephone connection to facilitate use of a modem and an Ethernetconnection to facilitate use of the network connectivity of portablecomputing device 500. In addition, docking elements 130 may includeelements for enabling communication between portable computing device500 and any of a variety of peripherals, for example, a mouse, akeyboard, a display, speakers, a printer, additional storage orencrypted storage and communication systems, a network such as Ethernet,an antenna for wireless communication, and an authentication key orbiometric access key. Furthermore, docking elements 130 may also includeconnections to a power source, USB ports, firewire ports, infraredconnections, and any other types of connections and ports available onportable computing device 500. Thus, docking elements 130 may includemany different types of docking elements include electrical power,serial ports, printer ports, USB and firewire ports, printer ports, etc.Accordingly, portable computing device 500 can achieve its sameconnectivity and functionality by docking with docking elements 130 thatit could achieve if used separately from housing 140. Docking elementsare not limited to connectors, but may include pigtails to allow anumber of different types of portable computing devices to be connected,as well as power conditioning equipment such as filters and regulators,or custom interface modules or docking stations.

When portable computing device 500 is positioned within recessed portion115 of housing 140, rugged lid portion 110 is closed over portablecomputing device 500, thereby completely encasing portable computingdevice 500 within recessed portion 115. As is exemplified in FIGS.1A-1C, lid portion 110 may be attached to housing 140 with a pluralityof hinges 125. Hinges 125 are merely an example of how lid portion 110may be mounted on housing 140. Other possible means of mounting lidportion 110 on housing 140 include a set of screws for attaching lidportion 110 to housing 140, sliding lid portion 110 relative to housing140, and forming lid portion 110 integrally with housing 140 in a mannerthat allows portable computing device 500 to be encased with housing140.

When lid portion 110 is closed over recessed portion 115 and portablecomputing device 500, a sealing element 160 is compressed between lidportion 110 and housing 140, thereby forming a seal between housing 140and lid portion 110. Sealing element 160 can be mounted on or formedintegrally with either lid portion 110 or housing 140, or may be aseparate component. For example, sealing element 160 may be a gaskettype element affixed to either lid portion 110 or housing 140. Asexemplified in the figures, sealing element 110 is preferably affixed tolid portion 110.

The seal formed between lid portion 110 and housing 140 can consist ofone or more of a moisture seal, a debris seal, and a vapor seal, forexample. A moisture seal is a seal that prevents liquids, for example,water, from entering recessed portion 115 and coming into contact withportable computing device 500. The moisture seal thus prevents theportable computing device from being exposed to external moisture suchas rain, chemicals, drinks, etc. A debris seal is a seal that preventsdebris, for example, dirt and sand, from entering recessed portion 115and coming into contact with portable computing device 500. The debrisseal thus prevents the portable computing device from being exposed toexternal debris such as dust, etc. A vapor seal is a seal that preventsvapors, for example, gases, from entering recessed portion 115 andcoming into contact with portable computing device 500. The vapor sealaccordingly prevents the portable computing device from being exposed toexternal vapors such as potentially harmful gases, water vapors, etc.Thus, when portable computing device 500 is encased within housing 140,sealing element 160 can prevent damage to portable computing device 500when portable computing device 500 is used, for example, outside duringa hurricane or dust storm. Various sealing functions, such as thosedescribed above, may be accomplished by either a single sealing element160 or by multiple sealing elements 160 used in combination.Additionally, an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield or radiofrequency interference (RFI) shield can be used to prevent thetransmission of electromagnetic energy.

Housing 140 and lid portion 110 may also include one or more ofinsulating elements 170. Insulating elements 170, which are formed of aninsulating material such as foam or the like, are preferably positionedin and around recessed portion 115 of housing 140 and lid portion 110.For example, insulating elements 170 may be positioned on the inner sideof lid portion 110 facing recessed portion 115 and on the bottom andsides of recessed portion 115. Thus, when portable computing device 500is encased within housing 140, insulating elements 170 effectivelysurround portable computing device 500. In the alternative, insulatingelements 170 may be formed integrally within housing 140. For example,housing 140 and lid portion 110 may be constructed of a material that isnaturally insulating.

Insulating elements 170 insulate portable computing device 500 fromexternal conditions that may be harmful to portable computing device500. For example, insulating elements 170 may provide thermal insulationto protect portable computing device 500 from extreme externaltemperatures, for example, extreme heat or cold. Thus, if portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 140 and is used inextremely cold conditions, for example, in the arctic, insulatingelements 170 insulate portable computing device 500 and prevent portablecomputing device 500 from freezing. Additionally, temperaturecompensating devices such as solid-state heat pumps or heat-sinking(conducting) shock-absorbing foam, can be incorporated to maintain theportable computing device within its operational range.

Insulating elements 170 may also function as shock-absorbing elements.In this case, insulating elements 170 protect portable computing device500 from external vibrations that may be harmful to portable computingdevice 500. For example, insulating elements 170 can absorb externalvibrations that impact housing 140. Thus, if housing 140 is subjected topotentially harmful levels of vibration, for example, being dropped orbeing used in a vehicle in motion, insulating elements 170 protectportable computing device 500 from those vibrations. Therefore, ifportable computing device 500 is encased within housing 140 and is usedin a manner that would normally expose portable computing device 500 topotentially harmful shocks and vibrations, for example, in a movingvehicle, insulating elements 170 absorb those vibrations and prevent thevibrations from damaging portable computing device 500.

When portable computing device 500 is encased within housing 140,portable computing device is in communication with one or moreperipherals, for example, a rugged display 105 and a rugged user inputdevice 135. Other peripherals may include a mouse, a printer, a network,a phone jack, etc. This communication may be facilitated by cables 145.One end of cables 145 are connected to one or more peripherals. Theother end of cable 145 is connected to housing 140. The end of cable 145connected to housing 140 are in communication with portable computingdevice 500 via docking elements 130, as described above. Thus, cables145 may be any type of cable adapted for use with a portable computingdevice such as USB cables, telephone cables, network cables, firewirecables, and serial cables. As an alternative to cables 145, housing 140or computer 500 may have wireless capability, thereby being incommunication with one or more peripherals wirelessly.

The rugged peripherals, for example, rugged display 105 and rugged userinput device 135, are designed for use in harsh and potentially harmfulenvironments. As with housing 140, each of the peripherals preferablyincludes an outer shell similar to outer shell 120 of housing 140. Inaddition, each of the rugged peripherals should be resistant to externalconditions of concern. For example, if system 100 is used in a wetenvironment, for example, during a hurricane, and sealing element 160includes a moisture seal, it is preferable for each of the ruggedperipherals to also be resistant to moisture. Accordingly, the ruggeduser input device 135 would be impervious to moisture and would be fullyfunctional in a wet environment.

Therefore, when portable computing device 500 is encased within housing140 as described above, portable computing device 500 may be operatedusing rugged peripherals in communication with portable computing device145, such as rugged user input device 135 and rugged display 105.Accordingly, portable computing device 500 may be used via the ruggedperipherals in unfavorable and potentially damaging conditions withoutexposing portable computing device 500 to those conditions.

The preferred embodiments of the invention shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, 3A-3D,and 4A-4C include slight variations from the preferred embodiment shownin FIGS. 1A-1C in two ways. First, as is described above, the recessedportion of the housing may be located in different positions on thehousing. Second, the rugged peripherals, such as a rugged user inputdevice and a rugged display, may be mounted onto the housing.

FIGS. 2A-2D exemplify a system 200 for protecting portable computingdevice 500 wherein system 200 includes a device housing 240 adapted toprotectively encase portable computing device 500 to prevent exposure ofportable computing device 500 to potentially harmful operationalconditions. As is described above, portable computing device 500 mayinclude a user input device and a display, for example, a laptopcomputer. However, portable computing device 500 may be any type ofportable computing device, for example, a PDA or a handheld computer.

Housing 240 includes a rugged outer shell 220, a recessed portion 215,and a lid portion 210. As is shown in the figures, recessed portion 215may be formed on the side of housing 240. Thus, portable computingdevice 500 can be inserted into recessed portion 215 from the side ofhousing 140, and docked with housing 240 as described above withreference to docking elements 130 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. Thus, portablecomputing device 500 is in communication with docking elements ofhousing 240.

When portable computing device 500 is positioned within recessed portion215 of housing 240, rugged lid portion 210 is closed over portablecomputing device 500, thereby completely encasing portable computingdevice 500 within recessed portion 215. Lid portion 210 may be attachedto housing 240 with a plurality of hinges 225 or by any other suitablemeans.

When lid portion 210 is closed over recessed portion 215 and portablecomputing device 500, a sealing element 260 is compressed between lidportion 210 and housing 240, thereby forming a seal between housing 240and lid portion 210. As described above, the seal formed between lidportion 210 and housing 240 can consist of one or more of a moistureseal, a debris seal, and a vapor seal, for example. Thus, when portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 240, sealing element 260can prevent damage to portable computing device 500 when portablecomputing device 500 is used, for example, outside during a hurricane ordust storm.

Housing 240 and lid portion 210 may also include one or more ofinsulating elements 270. Insulating elements 270, which are formed of aninsulating material such as foam or the like, are preferably positionedin and around recessed portion 215 of housing 240 and lid portion 210.For example, insulating elements 270 may be positioned on the inner sideof lid portion 210 facing recessed portion 215 and on the top, bottom,and sides of recessed portion 215. Thus, when portable computing device500 is encased within housing 240, insulating elements 270 effectivelysurround portable computing device 500. In the alternative, insulatingelements 270 may be formed integrally within housing 240. For example,housing 240 and lid portion 210 may be constructed of a material that isnaturally insulating.

Insulating elements 270 insulate portable computing device 500 fromexternal conditions that may be harmful to portable computing device500. For example, insulating elements 270 may provide thermal insulationto protect portable computing device 500 from extreme externaltemperatures, for example, extreme heat or cold. Thus, if portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 240 and is used inextremely cold conditions, for example, in the arctic, insulatingelements 270 insulate portable computing device 500 and prevent portablecomputing device 500 from freezing.

Insulating elements 270 may also function as shock-absorbing elements.In this case, insulating elements 270 protect portable computing device500 from external vibrations that may be harmful to portable computingdevice 500. For example, insulating elements 270 can absorb externalvibrations that impact housing 240. Thus, if housing 240 is subjected topotentially harmful levels of vibration, for example, being dropped orbeing used in a vehicle in motion, insulating elements 270 protectportable computing device 500 from those vibrations. Therefore, ifportable computing device 500 is encased within housing 240 and is usedin a manner that would normally expose portable computing device 500 topotentially harmful shocks and vibrations, for example, in a movingvehicle, insulating elements 270 absorb those vibrations and prevent thevibrations from damaging portable computing device 500.

When portable computing device 500 is encased within housing 240,portable computing device is in communication with one or moreperipherals, for example, a rugged display 205 and a rugged user inputdevice 235. Other peripherals may include a mouse, a printer, a network,a phone jack, etc. As is shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, these rugged peripheralsmay be mounted directly on, or be formed integrally with, housing 240.For example, rugged user input device 235 and rugged display 205 may bemounted directly on housing 240.

The rugged peripherals, for example, rugged display 205 and rugged userinput device 235, are designed for use in harsh and potentially harmfulenvironments. As with housing 240, each of the peripherals preferablyincludes an outer shell similar to outer shell 220 of housing 240. Inaddition, each of the rugged peripherals should be resistant to externalconditions of concern. For example, if system 200 is used in a wetenvironment, for example, during a hurricane, and sealing element 260includes a moisture seal, it is preferable for each of the ruggedperipherals to also be resistant to moisture.

Therefore, when portable computing device 500 is encased within housing240 as described above, portable computing device 500 may be operatedusing rugged peripherals mounted on or formed integrally with housing240, such as rugged user input device 235 and rugged display 205.Accordingly, portable computing device 500 may be used via the ruggedperipherals in unfavorable and potentially damaging conditions withoutexposing portable computing device 500 to those conditions.

FIGS. 3A-3D exemplify a system 300 similar to system 200 shown in FIGS.2A-2D with the exception that a recessed portion 315 is positioned onthe front of housing 340. Thus, system 300 is a system for protectingportable computing device 500 wherein system 300 includes a devicehousing 340 adapted to protectively encase portable computing device 500to prevent exposure of portable computing device 500 to potentiallyharmful operational conditions. Housing 340 includes a rugged outershell 320, a recessed portion 315, and a lid portion 310. As is shown inthe figures, recessed portion 315 may be formed on the front of housing340. Thus, portable computing device 500 can be inserted into recessedportion 315 from the front of housing 340, and docked with housing 340as described above with reference to docking elements 130 shown in FIGS.1A-1C.

When portable computing device 500 is positioned within recessed portion315 of housing 340, rugged lid portion 310 may be closed over portablecomputing device 500, thereby completely encasing portable computingdevice 500 within recessed portion 315. Lid portion 310 may be attachedto housing 340 with a plurality of hinges 325 or by any other suitablemeans.

When lid portion 310 is closed over recessed portion 315 and portablecomputing device 500, a sealing element 360 is compressed between lidportion 310 and housing 340, thereby forming a seal between housing 340and lid portion 310. As described above, the seal formed between lidportion 310 and housing 340 can consist of one or more of a moistureseal, a debris seal, and a vapor seal, for example. Thus, when portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 340, sealing element 360can prevent damage to portable computing device 500 when portablecomputing device 500 is used, for example, outside during a hurricane ordust storm.

Housing 340 and lid portion 310 may also include one or more ofinsulating elements 370. Insulating elements 370, which are formed of aninsulating material such as foam or the like, are preferably positionedin and around recessed portion 315 of housing 340 and lid portion 310.For example, insulating elements 370 may be positioned on the inner sideof lid portion 310 facing recessed portion 315 and on the top, bottom,and sides of recessed portion 315. Thus, when portable computing device500 is encased within housing 340, insulating elements 370 effectivelysurround portable computing device 500. In the alternative, insulatingelements 370 may be formed integrally within housing 340. For example,housing 340 and lid portion 310 may be constructed of a material that isnaturally insulating.

Insulating elements 370 insulate portable computing device 500 fromexternal conditions that may be harmful to portable computing device500. For example, insulating elements 370 may provide thermal insulationto protect portable computing device 500 from extreme externaltemperatures, for example, extreme heat or cold. Thus, if portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 340 and is used inextremely cold conditions, for example, in the arctic, insulatingelements 370 insulate portable computing device 500 and prevent portablecomputing device 500 from freezing.

Insulating elements 370 may also function as shock-absorbing elements.In this case, insulating elements 370 protect portable computing device500 from external vibrations that may be harmful to portable computingdevice 500. For example, insulating elements 370 can absorb externalvibrations that impact housing 340. Thus, if housing 340 is subjected topotentially harmful levels of vibration, for example, being dropped orbeing used in a vehicle in motion, insulating elements 370 protectportable computing device 500 from those vibrations. Therefore, ifportable computing device 500 is encased within housing 340 and is usedin a manner that would normally expose portable computing device 500 topotentially harmful shocks and vibrations, for example, in a movingvehicle, insulating elements 370 absorb those vibrations and prevent thevibrations from damaging portable computing device 500.

When portable computing device 500 is encased within housing 340,portable computing device is in communication with one or moreperipherals, for example, a rugged display 305 and a rugged user inputdevice 335. Other peripherals may include a mouse, a printer, a network,a phone jack, etc. As is shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, these rugged peripheralsmay be mounted directly on, or be formed integrally with, housing 340.For example, rugged user input device 335 and rugged display 305 may bemounted directly on housing 340.

The rugged peripherals, for example, rugged display 305 and rugged userinput device 335, are designed for use in harsh and potentially harmfulenvironments. As with housing 340, each of the peripherals preferablyincludes an outer shell similar to outer shell 320 of housing 340. Inaddition, each of the rugged peripherals should be resistant to externalconditions of concern. For example, if system 300 is used in a wetenvironment, for example, during a hurricane, and sealing element 360includes a moisture seal, it is preferable for each of the ruggedperipherals to also be resistant to moisture.

Therefore, when portable computing device 500 is encased within housing340 as described above, portable computing device 500 may be operatedusing rugged peripherals mounted on or formed integrally with housing340, such as rugged user input device 335 and rugged display 305.Accordingly, portable computing device 500 may be used via the ruggedperipherals in unfavorable and potentially damaging conditions withoutexposing portable computing device 500 to those conditions.

FIGS. 4A-4C also exemplify a system 400 similar to system 200 shown inFIGS. 2A-2D with the exception that a recessed portion 415 is positionedon the top of housing 440. Thus, system 400 is a system for protectingportable computing device 500 wherein system 400 includes a devicehousing 440 adapted to protectively encase portable computing device 500to prevent exposure of portable computing device 500 to potentiallyharmful operational conditions. Housing 440 includes a rugged outershell 420, a recessed portion 415, and a lid portion 410. As is shown inthe figures, recessed portion 415 may be formed on the front of housing440. Thus, portable computing device 500 can be inserted into recessedportion 415 from the front of housing 440, and docked with dockingelements 430 as described above with reference to docking elements 130shown in FIGS. 1A-1C.

When portable computing device 500 is positioned within recessed portion415 of housing 440, rugged lid portion 410 may be closed over portablecomputing device 500, thereby completely encasing portable computingdevice 500 within recessed portion 415. Lid portion 410 may be attachedto housing 440 with a plurality of hinges 425 or by any other suitablemeans.

When lid portion 410 is closed over recessed portion 415 and portablecomputing device 500, a sealing element 460 is compressed between lidportion 410 and housing 440, thereby forming a seal between housing 440and lid portion 410. As described above, the seal formed between lidportion 410 and housing 440 can consist of one or more of a moistureseal, a debris seal, and a vapor seal, for example. Thus, when portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 440, sealing element 460can prevent damage to portable computing device 500 when portablecomputing device 500 is used, for example, outside during a hurricane ordust storm.

Housing 440 and lid portion 410 may also include one or more ofinsulating elements 470. Insulating elements 470, which are formed of aninsulating material such as foam or the like, are preferably positionedin and around recessed portion 415 of housing 440 and lid portion 410.For example, insulating elements 470 may be positioned on the inner sideof lid portion 410 facing recessed portion 415 and on the bottom andsides of recessed portion 415. Thus, when portable computing device 500is encased within housing 440, insulating elements 470 effectivelysurround portable computing device 500. In the alternative, insulatingelements 470 may be formed integrally within housing 440. For example,housing 440 and lid portion 410 may be constructed of a material that isnaturally insulating.

Insulating elements 470 insulate portable computing device 500 fromexternal conditions that may be harmful to portable computing device500. For example, insulating elements 470 may provide thermal insulationto protect portable computing device 500 from extreme externaltemperatures, for example, extreme heat or cold. Thus, if portablecomputing device 500 is encased within housing 440 and is used inextremely cold conditions, for example, in the arctic, insulatingelements 470 insulate portable computing device 500 and prevent portablecomputing device 500 from freezing.

Insulating elements 470 may also function as shock-absorbing elements.In this case, insulating elements 470 protect portable computing device500 from external vibrations that may be harmful to portable computingdevice 500. For example, insulating elements 470 can absorb externalvibrations that impact housing 440. Thus, if housing 440 is subjected topotentially harmful levels of vibration, for example, being dropped orbeing used in a vehicle in motion, insulating elements 470 protectportable computing device 500 from those vibrations. Therefore, ifportable computing device 500 is encased within housing 440 and is usedin a manner that would normally expose portable computing device 500 topotentially harmful shocks and vibrations, for example, in a movingvehicle, insulating elements 470 absorb those vibrations and prevent thevibrations from damaging portable computing device 500.

When portable computing device 500 is encased within housing 440,portable computing device is in communication with one or moreperipherals, for example, a rugged display 405 and a rugged user inputdevice 435. Other peripherals may include a mouse, a printer, a network,a phone jack, etc. As is shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, these rugged peripheralsmay be mounted directly on, or be formed integrally with, housing 440 orlid portion 410. For example, rugged display 405 may be mounted directlyon, or be formed integrally with, housing 440 and rugged user inputdevice 435 may be mounted directly on, of formed integrally with, lidportion 410.

The rugged peripherals, for example, rugged display 405 and rugged userinput device 435, are designed for use in harsh and potentially harmfulenvironments. As with housing 440, each of the peripherals preferablyincludes an outer shell similar to outer shell 420 of housing 440. Inaddition, each of the rugged peripherals should be resistant to externalconditions of concern. For example, if system 400 is used in a wetenvironment, for example, during a hurricane, and sealing element 460includes a moisture seal, it is preferable for each of the ruggedperipherals to also be resistant to moisture.

Therefore, when portable computing device 500 is encased within housing440 as described above, portable computing device 500 may be operatedusing rugged peripherals mounted on or formed integrally with housing440, such as rugged user input device 435 and rugged display 405.Accordingly, portable computing device 500 may be used via the ruggedperipherals in unfavorable and potentially damaging conditions withoutexposing portable computing device 500 to those conditions.

As is described above and shown in the enclosed figures, the inventionrelates to a system for protecting a portable computing device whereinthe system comprises a device housing adapted to protectively encase aportable computing device, a protectively hardened user input devicemounted on, or in communication with, the device housing, and aprotectively hardened display mounted on, or in communication with, thedevice housing. When the portable computing device is encased within thedevice housing, a user of the portable computing device can operate theportable computing device via the protectively hardened user inputdevice and the protectively hardened display, thereby allowing andenabling use of the portable computing device while preventing exposureof the portable computing device to potentially harmful operationalconditions. Moreover, the housing may also encase a portable computingdevice in the closed position while still enabling a user of theportable computing device to operate the portable computing device viathe protectively hardened user input device and the protectivelyhardened display.

In addition, the device housing may further comprise one or more of asealing element, an insulating element, and a shock-absorbing element.Furthermore, the device housing may be formed of many different types ofmaterials including, but not limited to, plastic materials or metalmaterials.

The invention may be applied to and used in conjunction with all typesof portable computing devices. Some examples of acceptable portablecomputing devices include laptop computers, personal digital assistants(PDA's), and handheld computers.

Thus, the invention allows a user to pay only once for the high cost ofan environmentally rugged system that uses a potentially inexpensiveportable computing device and then simply replace the portable computingdevice with another potentially inexpensive unit as necessary upon theoriginal unit's failure or obsolescence. Also, the invention permitsgovernment and other certifications for harsh environments to beaccomplished only once, for the case itself, without the need torecertify for each computing device. This can yield tremendous time andcost savings. For the first time, the invention permits the most up todate devices to be used in harsh environments, such as the battlefield.The invention further allows a user to simply use his own portablecomputing device preloaded with software and data, or an encryptedcomputer system, with the environmentally rugged system of theinvention.

It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those madeapparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained and,since certain changes may be made, in carrying out the above processes,in a described instrument, and in the construction set forth, withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intendedthat all matter contained in the above description shown in theaccompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense.

It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended tocover all of the generic and specific features of the invention hereindescribed, and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as amatter of language, might be said to fall there between.

1. A system for protecting a portable computing device, the systemcomprising: a device housing adapted to protectively encase the portablecomputing device to prevent exposure of the portable computing device topotentially harmful operational conditions, the portable computingdevice including at least one of a user input device and a display; aprotectively hardened user input device in communication with saiddevice housing; and a protectively hardened display in communicationwith said device housing, wherein said device housing allows a user ofthe portable computing device to operate the portable computing devicevia said protectively hardened user input device and said protectivelyhardened display.
 2. The system for protecting a portable computingdevice of claim 1, wherein the portable computing device is a laptop. 3.The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 1,wherein the portable computing device is a personal digital assistant.4. The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 1,wherein the portable computing device is a handheld computer.
 5. Thesystem for protecting a portable computing device of claim 1, whereinthe portable computing device is a router.
 6. The system for protectinga portable computing device of claim 1, wherein the portable computingdevice is a switch.
 7. The system for protecting a portable computingdevice of claim 1, wherein the portable computing device is a telephone.8. The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 7,wherein the telephone is a cellular telephone.
 9. The system forprotecting a portable computing device of claim 1, wherein the portablecomputing device is a hub.
 10. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 1, wherein the portable computing device isoptical communications equipment.
 11. The system for protecting aportable computing device of claim 1, wherein said protectively hardeneduser input device is a mouse.
 12. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 1, wherein said protectively hardened userinput device is a touch pad.
 13. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 1, wherein said protectively hardened userinput device is a joystick.
 14. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 1, wherein said device housing furthercomprises a sealing element.
 15. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 14, wherein said sealing element comprises amoisture seal.
 16. The system for protecting a portable computing deviceof claim 14, wherein said sealing element comprises a debris seal. 17.The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 14,wherein said sealing element comprises a vapor seal.
 18. The system forprotecting a portable computing device of claim 14, wherein said sealingelement comprises a electromagnetic seal.
 19. The system for protectinga portable computing device of claim 1, wherein said device housingfurther comprises an insulating element.
 20. The system for protecting aportable computing device of claim 19, wherein said insulating elementcomprises thermal insulation.
 21. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 19, wherein said insulating element comprisesan electromagnetic interference shield.
 22. The system for protecting aportable computing device of claim 19, wherein said insulating elementcomprises a radio frequency interference shield.
 23. The system forprotecting a portable computing device of claim 1, wherein said devicehousing further comprises a shock-absorbing element.
 24. The system forprotecting a portable computing device of claim 1, wherein at least aportion of said device housing is formed of a plastic material.
 25. Thesystem for protecting a portable computing device of claim 1, wherein atleast a portion of said device housing is formed of a metal material.26. The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 1,wherein at least a portion of said device housing is formed of Kevlar orcarbon fiber.
 27. The system for protecting a portable computing deviceof claim 1, wherein, when the portable computing device includes anupper housing for housing a display, a lower housing for housing a userinput device, and a hinge element for pivotally connecting the upperhousing to the lower housing and enabling the portable computing deviceto rotate around the hinge element into an open position and a closedposition, said device housing further comprising a recessed portion forprotectively encasing the portable computing device when the portablecomputing device is in the closed position.
 28. The system forprotecting a portable computing device of claim 11, wherein said devicehousing allows a user of the portable computing device to operate theportable computing device via said protectively hardened user inputdevice and said protectively hardened display when the portablecomputing device is in the closed position and is protectively encasedwithin said recessed portion of said device housing.
 29. The system forprotecting a portable computing device of claim 1, wherein the portablecomputing device is electronically coupled to said device housing. 30.The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 1,wherein said protectively hardened user input device is mounted on saiddevice housing.
 31. The system for protecting a portable computingdevice of claim 1, wherein said protectively hardened display is mountedon said device housing.
 32. The system for protecting a portablecomputing device of claim 1, wherein said device housing allows a userof the portable computing device to operate the portable computingdevice via said protectively hardened user input device and saidprotectively hardened display without exposing the portable computingdevice to potentially harmful operational conditions of use.
 33. Asystem for protecting a communications device having at least onecommunications port, the system comprising: a device housing adapted toprotectively encase the communications device, said device housinghaving at least one interface corresponding to the at least onecommunications port of the communications device; a protectivelyhardened user input device in communication with said device housing;and a protectively hardened display in communication with said devicehousing.
 34. The system for protecting a communications device of claim33, wherein said communications device is a switch.
 35. The system forprotecting a communications device of claim 33, wherein saidcommunications device is a router.
 36. The system for protecting acommunications device of claim 33, wherein said communications device isa hub.
 37. The system for protecting a communications device of claim33, wherein said at least one interface of said device housing enablesat least one of configuration, control, and management of thecommunications device via said protectively hardened user input device.38. The system for protecting a portable computing device of claim 33,wherein said communications device is an optical communications device.